Biking Cuba

About Cuba

Leave the resorts of Varadero behind and discover the real Cuba on this eight-day active adventure. Get your blood pumping cycling the hills of the Guaniguanico and El Rosario mountain ranges and marvel at scenic vistas that will take your breath away. Tour a tobacco plantation for a taste of iconic Cuban culture. With its lush scenery, vibrant rhythms, and incredible beaches, this active cycling adventure will have you exploring a side of this island few get to know.

Cycle through pincushion hills, hear Cuban salsa music float through the streets of Havana, walk across one of Cuba’s famed white-sand beaches, gaze out across the crystal-blue Caribbean.

Dossier Disclaimer

The information in this trip details document has been compiled with care and is provided in good faith. However it is subject to change, and does not form part of the contract between the client and the operator. The itinerary featured is correct at time of printing. It may differ slightly to the one in the brochure. Occasionally our itineraries change as we make improvements that stem from past travellers, comments and our own research. Sometimes it can be a small change like adding an extra meal along the itinerary. Sometimes the change may result in us altering the tour for the coming year. Ultimately, our goal is to provide you with the most rewarding experience. Please note that our brochure is usually released in November each year. If you have booked from the previous brochure you may find there have been some changes to the itinerary.

VERYIMPORTANT: Please ensure that you print a final copy of your Trip Details to review a couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes that affect your plans.

Itinerary Notes

Right now is an exciting time in Cuba with rapidly changing legislation and local conditions. Cuba has seen a massive increase in tourism lately, which has put a strain on local tourist infrastructure. While we will strive to operate our tours as closely to published itineraries as possible, conditions often change from one day to the next, and minor tour modifications may be necessary with no advance notice.

Important Notes

Cycling Grading – Moderate

• Some degree of experience required
• Majority of on-road cycling and some rustic roads
• Occasional long days in the saddle or multiple ascents and descents
• Good fitness and skill level recommended
• Cycle between 20-65 km per day
• 5 days of cycling

Although this is considered to be a straightforward cycling trip, please be aware that in Cuba, the heat and humidity can have an effect while riding in Cuba. Make sure to pack enough water for each day, and be aware that items such as prepared snacks or rehydration drinks are not readily available in Cuba. If you feel that these would be helpful, then remember to pack them for your trip.

1. A support vehicle will accompany the group at all times during biking segments. Travellers may opt to hitch a ride at any time if they get tired and they can store additional drinks, snacks or clothing in the support vehicle.

2. Bikes are suitable for the type of terrain that is cycled in Cuba, all bought within the past two years. The brand is Specialised, the make is a Hardrock, with 29” wheels. Our bicycles can accommodate people of a variety of heights from 1.6m/5’3” up to 2m/6’7”.

3. Helmets are not included on this trip – please bring your own helmet with you. Gloves are not provided, it is recommended that you bring your own. You may choose to bring your own seat or clipless pedals but they are not necessary.

4. The bikes are fitted with a bottle carrier and bottle which is also washed and disinfected between trips. You may wish to bring your own camel back for drinking water.

INSURANCE
From 01 May 2010 all tourists entering Cuba will require “Medical Travel Insurance” that is on a Government approved list. We urge you to check with your insurance provider to ensure your policy is on the list of approved providers. If it is not, tourists will be forced to purchase a Government approved policy on arrival in Cuba. The cost of buying this insurance in Cuba will be in addition to any insurance already purchased, and it is likely the rates for these polices will be inflated compared to what you may purchase in advance from home.

G Adventures issues insurance policies at competitive rates, and our insurance provider has been confirmed as recognized by Cuban officials.

If you would like peace-of-mind and to purchase insurance from G Adventures, please contact our reservations team on 1800 465 5600 (from North America), or 08444 101030 (from the UK) or 39413 5820 (from Australia) or travel@gadventures.com

Bringing Your Own Bike

If you choose to bring your own bike, please be aware that you are responsible for the maintenance and support of the bike. It may be possible to hire some extra equipment as necessary for your cycle. Check with your airline about travelling with your bike, as some will charge you to take a bike on board. We would suggest that you pack your bike in a bike box or bag( usually available from your local bike shop). It’s also advisable to make sure your bike has been serviced before you travel.

DEBIT/CREDITCARDS

Please note that debit and credit cards that are issued by American banks are not accepted in Cuba and will not work at ATMs. In addition, it is recommended to contact your bank to advise you will be travelling in Cuba regardless of your nationality, as local ATMs are likely to block your card unless a travel notification has been set up.

Group Leader Description

This tour is accompanied by a local guide throughout. The aim of the local guide is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will be able to provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends.

Group Size Notes

Max 16, Avg 10

Meals Included

7 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners

Meals

Eating is a big part of traveling. Travelling with G Adventures you experience the vast array of wonderful food that is available out in the world. Generally meals are not included in the trip price when there is a choice of eating options, to give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat. It also gives you more budgeting flexibility, though generally food is cheap. Our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other’s company. There is no obligation to do this though. Your CEO will be able to suggest favourite restaurants during your trip. The above information applies to G Adventures group trips. Please refer to the meals included and budget information for included meals and meal budgets.

Resorts, hotels, and government-run restaurants are notorious for mediocre buffets and subpar food quality, but at casas and locally run restaurants you get the chance to taste real Cuban cuisine. Options may not be as diverse as back home, but you can expect to have simple, good, quality food.

Based on Cuba’s economic situation, there may be fluctuations in food supply and there are occasionally shortages of certain ingredients – which provides a great opportunity to try something new! Cubans rarely uses spices for cooking, so it’s recommended to bring some of your favourite spices or hot sauce for a bit of added punch.

Transport

Private vehicle, bicycle, support vehicle, walking.

Solo Travellers

We believe single travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and single travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price.

Accommodation

Casas particulares (homestays) (7 nts).

My Own Room

Please note that if you have booked the “My Own Room” option for this tour, you will receive your own single room for all night stops

An arrival transfer is included when you arrive on Day 1, or if you arrive up to three days prior provided that you have booked your pre-accommodation through G Adventures in our joining hotel. Due to customer experience and quality considerations, all services related to the tour must be continuous. Please note, the included arrival transfer is from Havana’s José Martí International Airport (HAV).

Airport transfers are only included from Havana’s José Martí International Airport (HAV). If you are flying into Varadero (VRA), you can purchase a transfer to the starting hotel. Speak to your GCO or sales agent for more information.

Our driver will be waiting for you with a G Adventures sign with your name on it, and they will be waiting for you outside the luggage hall. There most likely will be many signs, so please check carefully for your name.

If for any reason you are not met at the airport, please call our local support line or you can go to the the office of Cubanacan, the government agency, and ask for the Representative of Cuba Incentives (our local provider). If you are unable to make contact for whatever reason, please make your way to the joining point hotel via taxi.

Please note that Day 1 is an arrival day and no activities have been planned for that day other then your welcome meeting in the evening, so you can arrive at any time. Similarly the last day is a departure day during which no activities have been planned.

A G Adventures Representative will organize a short meeting soon after arrival, during which you will meet other tour participants and receive information about general and specific aspects of the trip. A welcome note will be left for you in the hotel so you have all the necessary information regarding the meeting time. If you arrive late, s/he will leave you a message detailing what time and where you should meet the next morning.

Arrival Complications

We don’t expect any problems, and nor should you, but if for any reason you are unable to commence your trip as scheduled, as soon as possible please contact your starting point hotel, requesting that you speak to or leave a message for your CEO (if you are not on a group tour please refer to the emergency contact details provided in this dossier). If you are unable to get in touch with your leader, please refer to our emergency contact details. If you have pre-booked an airport transfer and have not made contact with our representative within 30 minutes of clearing customs and immigration, we recommend that you make your own way to the Starting Point hotel, following the Joining Instructions. Please apply to your travel agent on your return for a refund of the transfer cost if this occurs.

Emergency Contact

Should you need to contact us during a situation of dire need, it is best to first call either the G Adventures Local Operator (if one is listed below) or our G Adventures Local Office. If for any reason you do not receive an immediate answer, please leave a detailed message and contact information, so they may return your call and assist you as soon as possible.

AIRPORTTRANSFER
If you have purchased an arrival through G Adventures or if an arrival transfer is included in the cost of your tour, please note that:

Your arrival transfer has been arranged based on flight information provided to us. If you are advised of a flight schedule change within 48 hours of your scheduled arrival time, we will do our best to rearrange your arrival transfer however we cannot guarantee this. If your arrival transfer does not arrive within 30 minutes after you have exited the arrivals area please take a taxi to your start point hotel.

CYCLING: All cycling equipment is included except for biking gloves and water bottles, we recommend you bring your own for additional comfort and convenience. You may also bring your own seat and clipless pedals if you choose; the bikes have normal pedals. Panniers are not necessary as you are able to store extra gear in the safety vehicle which will be following the group at all times. Bikes have a bottle carrier attached, and you are provided with a bottle which is washed and disinfected between trips. Additionally, you may wish to bring your own camel bag for drinking water.

GENERAL: We recommend using a backpack for your convenience, or a medium-sized suitcase if you prefer. A daypack is also essential for carrying everyday items. Space is limited on transportation, so there is a limit of one main piece of luggage per person. You will be responsible for carrying your own luggage.

Laundry facilities are offered by some of our hotels for a charge. There will be times when you may want to or have to do your own laundry so we suggest you bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap.

Visas and Entry Requirements

All countries require a valid passport (with a minimum 6 months validity). Contact your local embassy, or consulate for the most up-to-date visa requirements, or see your travel agent. IT’S YOURRESPONSIBILITY TO HAVETHECORRECTTRAVELDOCUMENTATION.

A “Tourist Card” is required for most nationalities to travel to Cuba. Many airlines to Cuba include the cost of this card in the flight cost and distribute the card during the flight. Some airlines do not provide this card, so it is best to call your airline and ask about it prior to travel. Tourist cards are also available from a Cuban consulate or embassy and cost approximately $20-$25CUC.

Please note that none of the airlines departing from the UK provide the Tourist Card on board and it’s no longer available for purchase at Gatwick airport.

Upon arrival to Cuba, keep your Tourist Card in a safe place, as it is necessary to show it occasionally to officials and also upon departure from the country.

Spending Money

Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip.

Money Exchange

The currency in Cuba is the Cuban Peso (CUP).

Bringing cash is the easiest way to travel in Cuba, though please take extra security precautions to avoid theft. Please note that until further notice AUD and NZD are not accepted in Cuba. Because of these difficulties we recommend that you arrive in Cuba with CAD, EUR, GBP, or Mexican pesos which can be easily converted into Cuban Convertible Pesos (CUC) at the 8% conversion fee.

As of November 8, 2004 the US Dollar is no longer being used as official currency. The Cuban Convertible Peso is at a similar value to the US Dollar, and can be acquired at any change house or bank. Please note that any transaction involving the US Dollar in Cuba automatically incurs a 18% fee.

People traveling in Cuba with Visa credit cards can still use them for cash advances, however all transactions will be subject to an 18% fee. Bank cards from US banks do not work in Cuba, and cards using the Cirrus or Maestro systems are nearly impossible to use. The best credit cards to bring are Visa Plus. Please note that ATMs are not widespread and generally speaking debit cards do not work in Cuba from any foreign banks.

If you plan to use a bank card, it would be advisable to check with your bank directly prior to your departure as to whether the card should work in Cuba.

We do not recommend you bring travellers cheques, as it is very difficult to exchange them in Cuba.

CURRENCYEXCHANGETIP: Please be advised that slightly torn notes, notes that have been heavily marked or are faded may be difficult to exchange. It is best to bring notes in fairly good condition, in denominations lower than 100USD (or equivalent). Cuban Convertible Pesos (CUC) are extremely difficult to convert outside of Cuba, be sure to convert any remaining CUC before departing Cuba.

You are advised NOT to change money on the street outside the airport or your hotel. Reliable money exchange may only be done at Cadecas (change houses), Banks, or Hotel Reception.

As currency exchange rates can fluctuate often we ask that you refer to the following website for daily exchange rates: www.xe.com

Emergency Fund

Please also make sure you have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an ‘emergency’ fund, to be used when circumstances outside our control (ex. a natural disaster) require a change to our planned route. This is a rare occurrence!

Tipping

It is customary in Latin America to tip service providers such as waiters, at approximately 10%, depending on the service. Tipping is an expected – though not compulsory – component of your tour program and an expression of satisfaction with the persons who have assisted you on your tour. Although it may not be customary to you, it is of considerable significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels. There are several times during the trip where there is opportunity to tip the local guides or drivers we use. You may do this individually, or your CEO will offer to collect the money and tip as a group. Recommendations for tipping drivers and local guides would range from $5-10 USD per day depending on the quality and length of the service; ask your CEO for specific recommendations based on the circumstances and culture.

Also at the end of each trip if you felt your G Adventures Chief Experience Officer did an outstanding job, tipping is appreciated. The amount is entirely a personal preference, however as a guideline $20-25 USD per person, per week can be used.

Optional Activities

All prices are per person, estimates in either USD amounts or CUC. Please see the Money Exchange section above regarding the currency situation in Cuba.
And are subject to change as services are provided by third party operators.

Please note inoculations may be required for the country visited. It is your responsibility to consult with your travel doctor for up to date medical travel information well before departure.

You should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information well before departure. We recommend that you carry a First Aid kit and hand sanitizers / antibacterial wipes as well as any personal medical requirements. Please be aware that quite often we are in remote areas and away from medical facilities, and for legal reasons our leaders are prohibited from administering any type of drug including headache tablets, antibiotics, etc. When selecting your trip please carefully read the brochure and itinerary and assess your ability to cope with our style of travel. Please refer to the Physical and Culture Shock ratings for trip specific information. G Adventures reserves the right to exclude any traveller from all or part of a trip without refund if in the reasonable opinion of our CEO they are unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to themselves and/or the rest of the group.

Safety and Security

Many national governments provide a regularly updated advice service on safety issues involved with international travel. We recommend that you check your government’s advice for their latest travel information before departure. We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe keeping of your passport, air tickets, travellers’ cheques, cash and other valuable items. Leave your valuable jewellery at home – you won’t need it while travelling. Many of the hotels we use have safety deposit boxes, which is the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage. When travelling on a group trip, please note that your CEO has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if it is deemed necessary due to safety concerns. Your CEO will accompany you on all included activities. During your trip you will have some free time to pursue your own interests, relax and take it easy or explore at your leisure. While your CEO will assist you with options available in a given location please note that any optional activities you undertake are not part of your itinerary, and we offer no representations about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running them. Please use your own good judgment when selecting an activity in your free time. Although the cities visited on tour are generally safe during the day, there can be risks to wandering throughout any major city at night. It is our recommendation to stay in small groups and to take taxis to and from restaurants, or during night time excursions.

Protests and Demonstrations- Protests and demonstrations, even those that are well intended, have the potential to turn violent with no warning. Counter protests can also turn violent. Action by security forces to disperse demonstrators and protesters may occur at any time. If you are in an area where demonstrators or protesters are gathering, avoid the temptation of staying for a good photo opportunity and leave the area immediately.

Water based activities have an element of danger and excitement built into them. We recommend only participating in water based activities when accompanied by a guide(s). We make every reasonable effort to ensure the fun and adventurous element of any water based activities (in countries with varying degrees of operating standards) have a balanced approach to safety. It is our policy not to allow our CEOs to make arrangements on your behalf for water based activities that are not accompanied by guide(s).

Swimming, including snorkeling, is always at your own risk.

We take all prudent measures in relation to your safety. For ways to further enhance your personal safety while traveling, please visit:

MAKINGFRIENDSWITHLOCALS
Sexuality is very open in Cuba and that can shock some travellers, especially women. There are many Cuban men and women (known as Jineteros), who make a living escorting foreigners. Offers of this service are very common in Havana. Be aware of this practice and keep in mind that some locals who approach you may do so to take advantage of your presence.

We advise traveling around the streets of Havana City in small groups, rather than individually (especially for women travelers). In addition, we suggest not carrying any easy targets for potential troublemakers like cameras, purses, or anything that is easy to snatch or grab. We advise this not expecting trouble, but rather erring on the side of caution.

Medical Form

Our small group adventures bring together people of all ages. It is very important you are aware that, as a minimum, an average level of fitness and mobility’ is required to undertake our easiest programs. Travellers must be able to walk without the aid of another person, climb 3-4 flights of stairs, step on and off small boats, and carry their own luggage at a minimum. Travellers with a pre-existing medical condition are required to complete a short medical questionnaire, which must be signed by their physician. This is to ensure that travellers have the necessary fitness and mobility to comfortably complete their chosen trip. While our CEOs work hard to ensure that all our travellers are catered for equally, it is not their responsibility to help individuals who cannot complete the day’s activities unaided. Please refer to the physical ratings in this Trip Details document for more information.
Please note that all passengers traveling to Antarctica are required to fill out this questionnaire.

Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on any trips. Possessing or using drugs not only contravenes the laws of the land but also puts the rest of the group at risk. Smoking marijuana and opium is a part of local culture in some parts of the world but is not acceptable for our travellers. Our philosophy of travel is one of respect towards everyone we encounter, and in particular the local people who make the world the special place it is. The exploitation of prostitutes is completely contrary to this philosophy. Our CEOs have the right to expel any member of the group if drugs are found in their possession or if they use prostitutes.

Travel Insurance

Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance has been sighted by your CEO, who will take note of your insurance details. When selecting a travel insurance policy please bear in mind that all clients must have medical coverage and that we require a minimum coverage of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.

Planeterra-The G Adventures Foundation

The Planeterra Foundation planeterra.org is a Canadian non-profit organization that helps empower local people to develop their communities, conserve their cultures, and create humane and supportive systems for their endeavours. Planeterra provides capacity building and catalyst grants to get community social enterprises off the ground. These businesses address local challenges by providing benefits for indigenous people, empowering marginalized women, and granting disadvantaged youth access to education, employment, and brighter futures. Planeterra also works to ensure these businesses have a thriving customer base by integrating programs into G Adventures’ itineraries globally.

G Adventures is Planeterra’s largest corporate donor, covering all operating costs so 100% of your donation will bring opportunity to people in need.

Dollar-a-Day Program
G Adventures’ Dollar-a-Day Program provides travellers with the opportunity to give back to the people and places visited on our tours by donating one dollar for every day you are on trip. 100% of these donations go directly to support community development projects worldwide that are implemented by Planeterra.

Feedback

After your travels, we want to hear from you! Your feedback information is so important to us that we’ll give you 5% off the price of your next G Adventures trip if your feedback is completed on-line within 30 days of finishing your trip. Your tour evaluation will be e-mailed to you 24 hours after the conclusion of your trip. If you do not receive the tour evaluation link in the days after your tour has finished, please drop us a line at customerservice@gadventures.com and we will send it on to you.

Newsletter

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Stay current on how our company invests in our global community through our foundation – Planeterra. Sign up for Planeterra’s monthly news to learn more about how to give back and support the people and places we love to visit.

Minimum Age

You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on a G Adventures tour. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.

International Flights

Check-in times and baggage allowances/restrictions vary by airline and can change at any time. For the most up-to-date information for your flight, please contact your airline. We recommend checking in online in advance to avoid potential delays at the airport.

Max Pax

16

Group Leader

Chief Experience Officer (CEO) throughout, local guides.

PRODUCT_LINE: CCB, ID: 23284

Terms, conditions and restrictions apply; pricing, availability, and other details subject to change and/ or apply to US or Canadian residents. Please confirm details and booking information with your travel advisor.

Itinerary

Day 1 Havana

Arrive in Havana at any time. There are no planned activities, so check into the casa and enjoy the city. Your CEO will organize a short meeting in the evening.

Additional Notes:
It is important to note that Cuba tends to be quite different to other areas of the world you may have travelled in. Buildings and infrastructure are generally old and may not have been maintained to the highest standard. Elevators, internet and A/C often break down, things happen very slowly and water pressure and hot water can be minimal. Cuba is an amazing place to visit but to fully enjoy and relax, western expectations should be left at home and your sense of adventure should be your guide.

Included Activities:
Arrival Day

Transport:
You will be met at the airport and transferred to the start location to start your adventure. Please note, the included arrival transfer is from Havana’s José Martí International Airport (HAV).
Arrival Airport Transfer

Day 2 Havana/Viñales (1B, 1D)

Leave Havana this morning and drive to the small village of Viñales. This region is one of the most stunning in Cuba, know for its mogotes (large limestone pincushion hills) that make for spectacular views. In the afternoon, get fitted on a bike and hop in the saddle for the first ride in the area. Although we’re not covering much distance today, it’s a great opportunity to get accustomed to the conditions and prepared for the days ahead.

Enjoy some free time in Viñales after lunch and opt to go caving, hiking, or relax and enjoy the beautiful views of the valley. Viñales is the base for the next three days of cycling, so unpack and get comfortable. Have dinner in the hotel and meet with the CEO in the evening to prepare for tomorrow’s adventure.

Today’s riding distance: approx 20km

Additional Notes:
This trip is considered a ‘Moderate’ cycling level and requires good fitness and skill level. Expect daily cycling to be between 20-65 kms on a mixture of paved and rustic roads to experience the true Cuban countryside – you never know when you may end up sharing the road with vintage cars or horse-drawn carriages! Heat and humidity can add unique challenges to cycling in Cuba, but a support vehicle will accompany the group for all biking segments in case you get tired and want to hitch a ride.

Day 3 Viñales (1B, 1L)

Cayo Levisa is the quintessential white-sand Caribbean beach that has yet to be found by most travellers to Cuba on an island just off the mainland. Enjoy time this afternoon to relax, go for a swim, or snorkel. Later in the afternoon, return to the mainland and hop in the support vehicle for a lift back to Viñales.

Day 4 Viñales (1B, 1D)

Today’s ride starts in the Acón Valley, a scenic area with similar landscapes to Viñales that is relatively untouched from tourism. Expect a leisurely ride to begin, before finishing the day on some of the larger hills in the area. This area is primarily rural farmland, giving a unique glimpse into the daily life of Cubans outside of larger towns.

Today’s riding distance: approx 37km, with the option to cycle back to Viñales (additional 30km)

Included Activities:
Cycling La Palma to Vinales

Transport:
Private Vehicle

Day 5 Viñales/Soroa (1B, 1L)

Due to the richness of the soil, Pinar del Río accounts for 59 per cent of Cuba’s tobacco plantation, with the first factory opening in 1760. Visit a tobacco factory to watch cigars being produced before transferring to Cueva de los Portales, a cave where Che Guevara commanded Cuba’s occidental army during the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis. Take time wandering the grounds and check out some of Che’s artifacts that were left behind.

Enjoy a picnic lunch before an afternoon bike ride to La Güira, the ruins of a former politician’s mansion that is now a National Park. Make sure to check out the impressive gates to the park and keep an eye out for the many species of birds that call this area home. Later, transfer to your accommodation in Soroa.

Today’s riding distance: approx 16km

Included Activities:
Cigar Tour
Cycling to La Güira

Transport:
Private Vehicle
Private Vehicle

Day 6 Soroa (1B, 1D)

In 1968, Fidel Castro started what was known as a green revolution: reforesting the Sierra del Rosario mountains that were logged by Spanish conquistadors, along with nurturing nearby land damaged by hurricanes, to try and improve the lives of citizens living in this remote region. This also marked the birth of Las Terrazas, a small eco-village that is now a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

Start the day back in the saddle and cycle from Soroa to Las Terrazas. Throughout the ride, stop at some local communities to see rural Cuban life and learn about the history of the region. Most of the cycling today is moderate, with one steep hill to climb. After arriving in Las Terrazas, enjoy free time to explore the beautiful natural surroundings. Go for a hike, bird-watching, or wander through the open studios and pottery workshops of this vibrant art community.

Today’s riding distance: approx 35km, with the option to cycle back to Soroa (additional 17km)

Included Activities:
Cycling Las Terrazas

Transport:
Private Vehicle (23km)

Day 7 Soroa/Havana (1B, 1L)

One of the oldest cities in the western hemisphere, Havana was designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1982. It contains a wealth of colonial architecture, and the old city and streets around the malecon (ocean-side walkway) are best discovered on foot. After arriving back to the city, go on a walking tour of Havana’s highlights. Revel in the bustle, history, and rhythms of this fascinating Caribbean capital city.